Coincidentally, “Roots” debuted in its remake on American TV this week and we had a chance to feel what USA slavery was and continues to do. Ali was smart and honest, and of course, funny, and brought a Kunta Kinte dignity to a sport that had no grace or integrity. He talked openly about making and owing money, being locked out of his income-producing profession by his government, and the hypocrisy of the Viet Nam War (see video below). He had grace under pressure and he made us laugh. RIP with Allah.